The Palestine Police Department, founded in 1871, has a rich history, from the appointment of its first police officer in that year, to its current composition of 41 officers. Through the years, policing has evolved, from the early years of order maintenance policing to the current methods of policing, centered around a community-based approach, where solutions are sought both inside and outside of traditional law enforcement circles, in order to provide the level of service and safety that is expected from our community.

The department consists of four divisions: Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Support Services, and Administration, all working hand in hand to serve a population of approximately 18,000. The department offers advancement opportunities through promotions and the following lateral movements within the department including Corporal, Sergeant, Detective, K-9 Handler, Sergeant, Lieutenant and Captain.

The Palestine Police Department offers career opportunities for T.C.O.L.E. Certified Police Officers as well as those eligible for certification.

Programs and Services:

The Palestine Police Department has taken steps to re-institute a once viable neighborhood watch program along with other community oriented programs.

Our desire is to get citizens involved in their community side-by-side with this department in an effort to make this a better community. Our intent is to start hosting the below listed programs:

Residential and business security survey

Child safety programs and McGruff

Citizens Police Academy

National Night Out

Police Explorers

Neighborhood watch

Citizens on Patrol

Blankets and Bears Program

These programs and services will be managed by the Support Services Division and Community Liaison and are supported by citizen participation in organizing and providing volunteer support. The Blankets and Bears Program is supported by generous donors.